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Status
ACTIVE
Global HQ
Boston, United States
Countries of investment
  • Kenya
  • Nigeria
  • Mexico
  • India
  • Colombia
  • South Africa
Investment stages
  • Pre-Seed
  • Seed
  • Series A
Industries
  • Fintech
  • Climate Tech
  • SaaS
About
Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed venture capital fund and accelerator that invests in and supports inclusive technology startups in emerging markets. Their mission is to back founders building affordable, accessible, and appropriate solutions that improve the resilience of underserved communities.
Min check size
$100K
Max check size
$100K
Fund size
NPS

Investment Thesis

Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed VC fund and accelerator backing inclusive tech innovators in emerging markets, with a focus on Africa, Latin America, and South Asia. They invest in mission-driven founders building solutions for underserved communities. Their unique approach combines capital with bespoke, hands-on venture-building support from in-house experts and access to a global network of investors and corporate partners to de-risk startups at the earliest stage.
Lead investor
Co Invest
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Manager's Experience

The managing partners, Maelis Carraro and Aaron Fu, each bring over 15 years of experience in impact investing and venture capital focused on emerging markets. Their backgrounds include leadership roles at BFA Global and co-founding other Africa-focused seed funds, demonstrating deep expertise in fintech and climate tech. The team combines operational and investment experience to support pre-seed stage companies.

Catalyst fund Contacts Information

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Secondary contact

Team

Maelis Carraro - Managing Partner

Maximillian Spelmeyer - Managing Partner

Thea Anderson - Director

Aaron T. Fu - Venture Partner

Ashley Lewis - Venture Partner

Sneha Aggarwal - Investment Principal

Dario Giuliani - Head of Research

Jane del Ser - Head of Program

Portfolio

Cowrywise

Chipper Cash

FarMart

Lami

PocketFin

Power

Wasoko

Wellahealth

Britam

Indifi

Ozé

Sokowatch

WorldCover

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